SEO vs GEO

In one line

SEO optimises to rank in search-engine results; GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) optimises to be named and quoted inside AI answers from ChatGPT, Gemini and Perplexity.

The difference

SEO earns a clickable link on a results page. GEO earns a mention inside a synthesised answer, where users may never see a list of links at all. SEO rewards keywords, links and rankings; GEO rewards clarity, extractable facts, structured data and trusted authority the model can quote.

Which to focus on

Both, they share a foundation. The clear, well-structured, authoritative content that ranks is the same content AI engines cite. Do SEO fundamentals, then layer GEO tactics (answer-first writing, schema, llms.txt, entity clarity) on top.

Frequently asked

Is GEO replacing SEO?

No, it's an extension. As people ask AI instead of Googling, being the cited source becomes as important as ranking, but both draw on the same quality signals.

Can one page win both?

Yes. Answer-first content with schema and strong E-E-A-T tends to rank AND get quoted, optimise once, win in both places.

Put this into practice

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Related

What is an LLM citation?
When ChatGPT, Perplexity or Gemini names your site, the new #1 ranking.
What is SEO?
Improving a site to rank higher and earn more relevant organic traffic.
What is E-E-A-T?
Google's Experience-Expertise-Authority-Trust quality lens, and how to prove it.